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EstimatingIntelligence

Methodology

How Estimating Intelligence evaluates construction software

Estimating Intelligence is an independent research and comparison resource for construction estimating, takeoff, bidding, and preconstruction software.

Our goal is to help contractors understand what each product actually does, who it is designed for, and how it differs from other tools in the market.

How product information is verified

We build product profiles from publicly available first-party sources whenever possible, including:

  • official product pages
  • vendor documentation
  • help centers
  • pricing pages
  • integration directories
  • release notes
  • product demonstrations and published technical documentation

When a product fact is independently checked against one or more of these sources, we record a verification date.

A verification date means that the listed information was checked against available source material on that date. It does not mean every feature, price, integration, or product capability has been independently tested by Estimating Intelligence.

Verified facts vs. vendor claims

We distinguish between factual product information and claims made by software vendors.

Examples of independently checkable facts include:

  • whether a product supports digital takeoff
  • whether a mobile application is available
  • whether a documented integration exists
  • whether a pricing plan is publicly listed
  • whether specific features appear in current product documentation

Statements such as customer counts, productivity improvements, time savings, market leadership, or performance improvements are treated as vendor claims unless supported by independent evidence.

Where useful, those claims may be included with clear attribution to the vendor.

Product testing

Unless a page explicitly states that Estimating Intelligence has directly tested a product, readers should not assume that hands-on testing has occurred.

Our current research model emphasizes source verification, workflow analysis, feature comparison, and buyer-focused evaluation.

When firsthand testing is conducted, we will identify it clearly and explain what was tested.

How comparisons are created

Software is compared using factors relevant to the specific buyer and workflow.

Depending on the category, those factors may include:

  • construction trade
  • company size
  • takeoff capabilities
  • estimating workflow
  • labor and material pricing
  • assemblies
  • bid management
  • integrations
  • cloud or desktop availability
  • mobile functionality
  • collaboration
  • reporting
  • project-management connectivity

We do not assume that the product with the most features is automatically the best choice.

A specialized electrical estimator, residential remodeler, general contractor, and commercial MEP contractor may all need different software.

Pricing

Software pricing can change frequently.

When publicly available pricing is shown, we verify it against the vendor's current pricing information and display the date it was checked where practical.

If pricing is not publicly available, we identify it as quote-based or unavailable rather than estimating or inventing a price.

Reviews and ratings

Estimating Intelligence does not create fictional customer reviews or ratings.

Where third-party ratings are referenced in the future, the original source should be identified.

Our editorial recommendations are based on product fit, verified capabilities, workflow considerations, and available evidence rather than fabricated scoring.

Updates and corrections

Construction software changes regularly.

Features, integrations, product names, pricing, and availability may change after a page is published.

We periodically recheck product information and update verification dates when material information is reviewed again.

If you find information that appears outdated or incorrect, contact us so it can be reviewed.

Editorial independence

Estimating Intelligence may participate in affiliate programs.

An affiliate relationship does not determine whether a product is included, how its capabilities are described, or which software is recommended for a particular use case.

Where affiliate links are used, they should be disclosed appropriately.

Our objective is to help contractors make a better software decision using clear, verifiable information.